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The Memories of Marlie Rose
Would you want to forget the only woman you’ve ever loved?
Marlie Rose does. Everyone thinks Broadway legend Marlie Rose has it a fabulous career spanning over five decades, all the major awards, and a lifetime in the spotlight. Only Marlie knows the heavy weight of her memories. When a new, experimental procedure promises to relieve trauma and heartbreak by erasing unwanted memories, Marlie signs up, desperate to let go of her tumultuous childhood, grief, and broken heart.
As Marlie recalls her memories and decides which ones to keep and which to erase, she unexpectedly reunites with Eleanor Olson, the woman she’s been in love with for forty-seven years. As her heartbreak fades and her heart races anew for Eleanor, Marlie discovers their love isn’t as dead as she thought it was, and she starts regretting the procedure.
Eleanor might be the only person who can help her restore her memories, but remembering might break her heart all over again.
Marlie Rose does. Everyone thinks Broadway legend Marlie Rose has it a fabulous career spanning over five decades, all the major awards, and a lifetime in the spotlight. Only Marlie knows the heavy weight of her memories. When a new, experimental procedure promises to relieve trauma and heartbreak by erasing unwanted memories, Marlie signs up, desperate to let go of her tumultuous childhood, grief, and broken heart.
As Marlie recalls her memories and decides which ones to keep and which to erase, she unexpectedly reunites with Eleanor Olson, the woman she’s been in love with for forty-seven years. As her heartbreak fades and her heart races anew for Eleanor, Marlie discovers their love isn’t as dead as she thought it was, and she starts regretting the procedure.
Eleanor might be the only person who can help her restore her memories, but remembering might break her heart all over again.
312 pages, Paperback
Published December 12, 2023
About the author
Morgan Lee Miller
10 books177 followersMorgan Lee Miller started writing at the age of 5 in the suburbs of Cleveland, Ohio. Since there is absolutely nothing to do there, she entertained herself by writing her first few novels by hand.
She currently resides in Washington, D.C. with her two feline children, Milo and Elsa. She has a serious problem with oversharing pictures of her cats on Instagram and promises never to apologize for it.
She currently resides in Washington, D.C. with her two feline children, Milo and Elsa. She has a serious problem with oversharing pictures of her cats on Instagram and promises never to apologize for it.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 41 reviews
December 22, 2023
In a Nutshell: A contemporary drama about a woman who resorts to a memory erasing procedure to ease her pain. Good characters and plot. Interesting themes.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Story Synopsis:
PSA: The blurb reveals too much.
Bookish Yays:
😍 Marlie as the lead is excellent. Confident in some ways, diffident in others. Adamant on some beliefs, malleable in others. She makes for a compelling flawed protagonist.
😍 The LGBTQ+ rep in the book is outstanding. Right from social pressures to keep sexual identities secret, to the problems faced in getting homes or adopting children, the story gives us a very factual glimpse of what it meant to be homosexual a few decades ago in the USA.
😍 The book also explores several other themes such as music and its healing power, the trials of foster kids, the impact of parental abandonment, the AIDS scare, and so on. All the themes fit into the story at just the right level without making anything feel overdone.
😍 The plot offers a great insight on how our past, including our regrets and their repercussions, makes us who we are. Life doesn't always offer us an undo, so Marlie’s sci-fi ‘undo’ of her memory offers much to ponder over.
😍 The author seems to have done her historical research very well. Through Marlie’s narration of her past, we get to see several key historical events and trivia. A lot of this relates to Broadway and awards, both of which are vital elements of Marlie’s life.
Bookish Mixed Bags:
😐 The concept of using a scientific procedure for memory culling through neurological reimaging is a good idea, though not really unique. The most popular example of such a technique is in ‘Eternal Sunshine of a Spotless Mind’. However, the technological details aren’t explored much in the novel. The process stays only a method of keeping the plot going. This was somewhat disappointing to me, though I suppose readers who aren’t fond of sci-fi elements will be relieved by this.
😐 The frame story of Marlie narrating her past to the doctor who would then erase the memories she chose works very well in helping us understand the kind of person Marlie is and why she felt so compelled to destroy a part of her past. However, the writing of the past narrative does not match its tone, that of being a professional doctor-patient conversation. Many of the details are written like they would be in novels, not in conversations. Moreover, Marlie goes into vivid detail about her past sexual intimacies with the love of her life, Eleanor. While a part of this could be explained away by saying that she is a movie/theatre star and hence is more open about such matters, the extent of the detailing (can’t provide examples, else my review will become R-rated) is definitely too much for the medical team’s ears.
Bookish Nays:
😣 The above also lends itself to a great big doubt. How the heck is Marlie’s memory so detailed and accurate when I, much younger than her, can’t remember what I did even a couple of days ago! 👀 Not once does Marlie hesitate while recollecting her past – her flow of thought is silky smooth. So much so that in one scene, she recollects an entire journal entry verbatim to her medical team. Too unrealistic!
😣 The resolution of the issue is too easy and instant.
All in all, the story definitely has merit. There might be some exaggerations and some coincidences, but other than that, it offers plenty to think about, and also has some interesting characters.
Recommended to those looking for a thought-provoking love story without the romantic mush but with a fair amount of steam.
3.75 stars.
My thanks to Bold Strokes Books, Inc. and NetGalley for the DRC of “The Memories of Marlie Rose”. This review is voluntary and contains my honest opinion about the book.
Interested in trying out another complicated love story involving the deletion of memories? Try ‘Love Deleted’ by Paul Indigo.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Connect with me through:
My Blog || The StoryGraph || Instagram || X/Twitter || Facebook ||
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Story Synopsis:
2016. Malibu, California. Marlie Rose, a sixty-two-year-old Broadway and movie star, is both successful and beloved. However, only she knows how much sadness her painful memories are causing her. Unable to bear the burden alone anymore, she decides to undergo a neurological reimaging process, which guarantees to delete whatever memories she isn't interested in retaining. Marlie begins the procedure with great hope, but as the sessions go by, she begins to wonder if she made a mistake.
The story comes to us in Marlie’s first person perspective, a great part of it being narrated in the form of a frame story, with the frame being the medical procedure that Marlie is undergoing.
PSA: The blurb reveals too much.
Bookish Yays:
😍 Marlie as the lead is excellent. Confident in some ways, diffident in others. Adamant on some beliefs, malleable in others. She makes for a compelling flawed protagonist.
😍 The LGBTQ+ rep in the book is outstanding. Right from social pressures to keep sexual identities secret, to the problems faced in getting homes or adopting children, the story gives us a very factual glimpse of what it meant to be homosexual a few decades ago in the USA.
😍 The book also explores several other themes such as music and its healing power, the trials of foster kids, the impact of parental abandonment, the AIDS scare, and so on. All the themes fit into the story at just the right level without making anything feel overdone.
😍 The plot offers a great insight on how our past, including our regrets and their repercussions, makes us who we are. Life doesn't always offer us an undo, so Marlie’s sci-fi ‘undo’ of her memory offers much to ponder over.
😍 The author seems to have done her historical research very well. Through Marlie’s narration of her past, we get to see several key historical events and trivia. A lot of this relates to Broadway and awards, both of which are vital elements of Marlie’s life.
Bookish Mixed Bags:
😐 The concept of using a scientific procedure for memory culling through neurological reimaging is a good idea, though not really unique. The most popular example of such a technique is in ‘Eternal Sunshine of a Spotless Mind’. However, the technological details aren’t explored much in the novel. The process stays only a method of keeping the plot going. This was somewhat disappointing to me, though I suppose readers who aren’t fond of sci-fi elements will be relieved by this.
😐 The frame story of Marlie narrating her past to the doctor who would then erase the memories she chose works very well in helping us understand the kind of person Marlie is and why she felt so compelled to destroy a part of her past. However, the writing of the past narrative does not match its tone, that of being a professional doctor-patient conversation. Many of the details are written like they would be in novels, not in conversations. Moreover, Marlie goes into vivid detail about her past sexual intimacies with the love of her life, Eleanor. While a part of this could be explained away by saying that she is a movie/theatre star and hence is more open about such matters, the extent of the detailing (can’t provide examples, else my review will become R-rated) is definitely too much for the medical team’s ears.
Bookish Nays:
😣 The above also lends itself to a great big doubt. How the heck is Marlie’s memory so detailed and accurate when I, much younger than her, can’t remember what I did even a couple of days ago! 👀 Not once does Marlie hesitate while recollecting her past – her flow of thought is silky smooth. So much so that in one scene, she recollects an entire journal entry verbatim to her medical team. Too unrealistic!
😣 The resolution of the issue is too easy and instant.
All in all, the story definitely has merit. There might be some exaggerations and some coincidences, but other than that, it offers plenty to think about, and also has some interesting characters.
Recommended to those looking for a thought-provoking love story without the romantic mush but with a fair amount of steam.
3.75 stars.
My thanks to Bold Strokes Books, Inc. and NetGalley for the DRC of “The Memories of Marlie Rose”. This review is voluntary and contains my honest opinion about the book.
Interested in trying out another complicated love story involving the deletion of memories? Try ‘Love Deleted’ by Paul Indigo.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Connect with me through:
My Blog || The StoryGraph || Instagram || X/Twitter || Facebook ||
April 10, 2025
**'Find any topic but then choose that genuine one that you really care about and that your many readers will care about also -- because your words are so compelling and even seductively enticing..'
Delightful read!
....
Delightful read!
....
December 24, 2023
Marlie Rose has lived quite a life so far. Now in her sixties Marlie is being pulled down by the loss of all the special people in her life. Seeking relief Marlie tries a new procedure which erases the memories she no longer wishes to carry. But is her life really better for not knowing love and everything that comes with it?
The Memories of Marlie Rose is a remarkably written story of true love lasting throughout the decades. The ingenious plot coupled with the compelling characters held me spellbound. I did not want this story to end.
Marlie, as a Broadway star, is the wonderful composite of all the best women who have played the great roles. Elle as the love of her life is not a pushover. She makes difficult decisions time and again based on what she wants out of life.
Peter, as Marlie’s best friend, warmed my heart by reminding me of dear friends lost to Aids during the 1980’s. The world lost far too many incredible men and women during this time. I too lost many kind, funny, occasionally catty and wildly witty gay friends. Through the author’s words I was gifted the opportunity to remember that time vividly, both the good and the sad. This touched me to my very core. To this day I still have names in my contact list who never lived to see the 1990’s. My heart will not allow me to erase them.
Morgan has found the perfect balance, tone and characters for this story. Marlie’s voice will stay in my head for a long time to come.
* My best read of 2023.
I received an advance review copy from Bold Strokes Books through NetGalley. I am leaving this review voluntarily.
The Memories of Marlie Rose is a remarkably written story of true love lasting throughout the decades. The ingenious plot coupled with the compelling characters held me spellbound. I did not want this story to end.
Marlie, as a Broadway star, is the wonderful composite of all the best women who have played the great roles. Elle as the love of her life is not a pushover. She makes difficult decisions time and again based on what she wants out of life.
Peter, as Marlie’s best friend, warmed my heart by reminding me of dear friends lost to Aids during the 1980’s. The world lost far too many incredible men and women during this time. I too lost many kind, funny, occasionally catty and wildly witty gay friends. Through the author’s words I was gifted the opportunity to remember that time vividly, both the good and the sad. This touched me to my very core. To this day I still have names in my contact list who never lived to see the 1990’s. My heart will not allow me to erase them.
Morgan has found the perfect balance, tone and characters for this story. Marlie’s voice will stay in my head for a long time to come.
* My best read of 2023.
I received an advance review copy from Bold Strokes Books through NetGalley. I am leaving this review voluntarily.
January 7, 2024
Loved every second of this !
January 6, 2024
The Memories of Marlie Rose is a rags to riches tale. A little girl from the poor side of New York grows up to be a legend on the Broadway stage. In some ways, it reminds me of the Seven Husbands of Evelyn Hugo. But Marlie Rose is her own force. Although Marlie has reached the peak of success, she is now haunted by a painful past and decides to undergo a treatment to remove the memories. The medical procedure requires Marlie to recount her life’s events so that is how we learn about her climb to success and her relationships. From a young age, Marlie knows she is only attracted to other girls then later, to women, so she is never involved with men. But from the age of 15, she has only eyes for her best friend, Elle, who is an equally strong character. I appreciated that the author chose to make Elle a high school teacher, a regular person but with her own self knowledge who could go toe to toe with Marlie. No matter what chapter in their relationship, there is always this sense of Elle telling Marlie, hey, don’t pull that on me, I knew you back when we were kids in the foster home. Another great character is Peter who becomes Marlie’s oft costar in the musicals and surrogate brother. He is full of verve and color. Unforgettable. I could picture them all so well that I would honestly forget for brief moments that this was fiction and tried going to youtube to check their old performances. The majority of the timeline spans from the 1960’s to the 1980’s which gives a window into NYC during those years.
The emotional core of the Memories of Marlie Rose is the question of what makes a person who they are? Marlie has to face this inevitability when she begins to lose pieces of her past. The book alludes to people with Alzheimer’s who lose their memories and cannot recall their lives or their people anymore.
For the most part, I loved the book but I felt that the story should have been expanded at the back end and included the latter years so we could have witnessed some important moments first hand. Maybe the author thought the book was getting too long so she tied it all up at the end but I would have been fine with more pages.
Read the book if you are a theatre buff, NYC fan, enjoy a climb to success story, or just love great characters. 4.5 stars rounded up. Fantastic start to 2024 reads.
The emotional core of the Memories of Marlie Rose is the question of what makes a person who they are? Marlie has to face this inevitability when she begins to lose pieces of her past. The book alludes to people with Alzheimer’s who lose their memories and cannot recall their lives or their people anymore.
For the most part, I loved the book but I felt that the story should have been expanded at the back end and included the latter years so we could have witnessed some important moments first hand. Maybe the author thought the book was getting too long so she tied it all up at the end but I would have been fine with more pages.
Read the book if you are a theatre buff, NYC fan, enjoy a climb to success story, or just love great characters. 4.5 stars rounded up. Fantastic start to 2024 reads.
December 1, 2023
Goodness… this book made me an emotional wreck and I loved every minute of it. From sadness to anger to heartbreak to happiness. It truly broke me and put me back together again. By no means is this a light read, but I also wouldn’t have wanted it any other way. Unlike any book I’ve read and it will be sitting with me for a while.
There are some trigger warnings that I feel need to be mentioned: death of a loved one, homophobia, abuse, depression, trauma, abandonment, and I might be forgetting others. I will say some of these might have deterred me, however, I am so so so glad I read this book.
There are some trigger warnings that I feel need to be mentioned: death of a loved one, homophobia, abuse, depression, trauma, abandonment, and I might be forgetting others. I will say some of these might have deterred me, however, I am so so so glad I read this book.
July 19, 2024
A gorgeous read with a unique premise!
If it was possible to erase the most painful memories of your life to help you find happiness, would you do it? And if so, would it result in the outcome you were hoping for?
This beautiful love story spanning 50+ years explores these questions and more. This 2024 GCLS Goldie award winner is thoughtful, moving and heartfelt with unforgettable characters that will stay with you long after you turn the last page.
This is my first book by Morgan Lee Miller and I can’t wait to experience more! If you haven’t already done so, I highly recommend picking this one up.
If it was possible to erase the most painful memories of your life to help you find happiness, would you do it? And if so, would it result in the outcome you were hoping for?
This beautiful love story spanning 50+ years explores these questions and more. This 2024 GCLS Goldie award winner is thoughtful, moving and heartfelt with unforgettable characters that will stay with you long after you turn the last page.
This is my first book by Morgan Lee Miller and I can’t wait to experience more! If you haven’t already done so, I highly recommend picking this one up.
May 22, 2024
6 stars 🌟
January 14, 2024
It is accurate to describe this book as some sort of blend of the seven husbands of Evelyn Hugo and Eternal sunshine. Marlie and Elle's story is beautiful and painful, making readers suffer breakups and reunions through the years. I felt invested in Marlie's story and got attached to side characters. Several times, I was yelling "nooo" when Marlie erased a memory. I do love to suffer a bit when I am reading and this book gave me that. It’s safe to advise readers to have some tissue nearby. The book is easy to read and is a page turner. Miller chose a difficult exercise dealing with a Marlie from the past and a Marlie with partially erased memory. It was well executed, but it tickled my brain and I often found myself thinking : wait was she supposed to remember that? The journey through Marlie's memory was my favorite. The last part soothes the reader's pain after Miller breaks their heart, allowing them to finally breathe. I thought it was a bit rushed after the thorough development of Marlie's life and the heavy impact of her decisions ; I would have wanted a few more chapters. I don't want to spoil too much, but I also wished we could read more of Elle's diary : bringing more of her point of view could have finished ripping our hearts, giving even more depth to the story.
Though angsty and sometimes painful to read, this book portrayed the kind of inevitable great love story that I love. A real demonstration of ripping, then mending reader's heart.
Though angsty and sometimes painful to read, this book portrayed the kind of inevitable great love story that I love. A real demonstration of ripping, then mending reader's heart.
December 8, 2023
Miller is an auto-read for me! “The Memories of Marlie Rose,” is such a heartfelt and honestly sad book full of regret. While there are VERY joyous moments, there is always a lingering cloud of sadness. Really enjoyed being immersed in New York spanning from the 1960s to present. What initially seemed like a conventional celebrity narrative turned out to be refreshingly unique. I received a copy from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
December 9, 2023
Marlie has done well for herself but her life having been great she is weigh down with painful memories. When she learns of experience that can erase memories we go through her life with her as she reflect on the experiences that shape her and the woman she never gotten over. Will you want to get rid of your memories or you realize without those experiences you wouldn’t be who you are today and sometimes you have a chance to get right. This was beautifully written that’s shows love is the strongest wether it’s chosen family or significant others or loving yourself.
I received an ARC copy of this book from the Publisher via Netgalley and voluntarily leaving my review.
I received an ARC copy of this book from the Publisher via Netgalley and voluntarily leaving my review.
February 16, 2024
Sapphic Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind? Don't mind if I do.
The blurb spoils too much, I have to say. Now that that's out of the way, I really enjoyed this. It's emotional and sort of along the lines of The Seven Husbands of Evelyn Hugo but with more focus on friendships and the actual issues affecting queer people during the time.
Marlie is a relatable character with deep trauma about being abandoned and unwanted and chooses to undergo a procedure to slice away parts of her memory that cause her pain rather than live with the pain and depression. The device used here, i.e. Marlie relating her whole life story in first person to a panel of "doctors" and then determining what out of it, if anything, she wants to remove, is not the most original or sensible but it is indeed engaging. Marlie's life and story are compellingly full and well fleshed out and we feel her depth of emotions and sadness during the difficult times.
Some may consider the end to be a bit too easy/convenient but honestly, it's consistent with the internal logic of the book and procedure and I prefer a more optimistic end than we find in The Seven Husbands of Evelyn Hugo, so no complaints here.
The blurb spoils too much, I have to say. Now that that's out of the way, I really enjoyed this. It's emotional and sort of along the lines of The Seven Husbands of Evelyn Hugo but with more focus on friendships and the actual issues affecting queer people during the time.
Marlie is a relatable character with deep trauma about being abandoned and unwanted and chooses to undergo a procedure to slice away parts of her memory that cause her pain rather than live with the pain and depression. The device used here, i.e. Marlie relating her whole life story in first person to a panel of "doctors" and then determining what out of it, if anything, she wants to remove, is not the most original or sensible but it is indeed engaging. Marlie's life and story are compellingly full and well fleshed out and we feel her depth of emotions and sadness during the difficult times.
Some may consider the end to be a bit too easy/convenient but honestly, it's consistent with the internal logic of the book and procedure and I prefer a more optimistic end than we find in The Seven Husbands of Evelyn Hugo, so no complaints here.
January 8, 2024
What an outstanding story that Morgan has weaved. It is a wild ride, that makes you cry, rejoice, worry, and wonder if Marlie is making the right decision. Will her love for Ellie, and Ellie's love for Marlie piece her back together.
This is definitely a favorite for 2024! Should be more than 5 stars.
This is definitely a favorite for 2024! Should be more than 5 stars.
December 4, 2023
A unique story that is beautifully written. Marlie Rose is a supremely talented Broadway legend and EGOT winner. But as she looks back at her life she is weighed down by her memories. As her memories unfold you get her gritty story rising from a childhood spent in foster homes to becoming a star. For many of the years Eleanor Olson is part of that life alongside her. This story is not typical in how it plays out. At times it is heartbreakingly sad and makes me wonder if I would choose to rid myself of painful memories. Or do they help me appreciate the better times in my life? But after the heartbreak comes the second chance to get things right.
One of the things I love about Miller’s writing is the extra’s she brings. In this case it is weaving Marlie into a mix of classic and fictional Broadway shows. I’m a theater lover. On my trip to NYC in September I saw nine shows. So it was an added bonus to me to see Marlie’s credits include: A Little Night Music, Chicago, Les Mis, Phantom and more. Especially moving was Mar's living in NYC during the AIDS epidemic and her friendship with Peter.
The romance is there. From first kiss to last first kiss. This story has depth and is one that will stay with me. Miller’s writing has done that to me with other books as well. I’m so glad that I got to read in ARC from Bold Strokes Books via NetGalley and I am leaving an honest review.
One of the things I love about Miller’s writing is the extra’s she brings. In this case it is weaving Marlie into a mix of classic and fictional Broadway shows. I’m a theater lover. On my trip to NYC in September I saw nine shows. So it was an added bonus to me to see Marlie’s credits include: A Little Night Music, Chicago, Les Mis, Phantom and more. Especially moving was Mar's living in NYC during the AIDS epidemic and her friendship with Peter.
The romance is there. From first kiss to last first kiss. This story has depth and is one that will stay with me. Miller’s writing has done that to me with other books as well. I’m so glad that I got to read in ARC from Bold Strokes Books via NetGalley and I am leaving an honest review.
December 7, 2023
Wow what an interesting premise! I was intrigued. Then I read the authors note and it added another dimension. I have rarely been as excited to see how a story would unfold from just the synopsis!
The first section is very emotional. I feel as if I am there and the mains pain is my pain.
The next section, although not good things happening to the main, and as well written as the first, in that I can clearly picture it and the awfulness, it isn’t as emotional, which is just as well because the first bit made me feel so much.
16% in and this is already a book that is head and shoulders above others. Plot lines that I thought my be followed have been ruled out. So far this is not a happy book, every silver lining has a cloud, and I am so here for that.
Things go better, and the intriguing premise adds a novel dimension, one that is making me think.
There are two love affairs in this book, the second is with found family and it has hit me as emotionally as the start.
I adored this book. I sobbed in a way few books ever make me. I don't mean a gentle filling of the eyes, I mean gulping air and sobbing out loud. I loved every bit of it. A cliche, but all the feels!
The first section is very emotional. I feel as if I am there and the mains pain is my pain.
The next section, although not good things happening to the main, and as well written as the first, in that I can clearly picture it and the awfulness, it isn’t as emotional, which is just as well because the first bit made me feel so much.
16% in and this is already a book that is head and shoulders above others. Plot lines that I thought my be followed have been ruled out. So far this is not a happy book, every silver lining has a cloud, and I am so here for that.
Things go better, and the intriguing premise adds a novel dimension, one that is making me think.
There are two love affairs in this book, the second is with found family and it has hit me as emotionally as the start.
I adored this book. I sobbed in a way few books ever make me. I don't mean a gentle filling of the eyes, I mean gulping air and sobbing out loud. I loved every bit of it. A cliche, but all the feels!
December 4, 2023
Morgan Lee Miller made me cry again. She has such writing talent that it brings me to my knees time and time again. I was fully enveloped by the main character's journey throughout the story. Highly recommend!
Thank you to Bold Strokes Books and NetGalley for providing an eARC for an honest review.
Thank you to Bold Strokes Books and NetGalley for providing an eARC for an honest review.
January 27, 2024
3.5 stars
I was immediately drawn into this story by the concept of erasing your memories. What an unusual concept for a lesbian romance. And the first 25% was interesting but then I realized that I was going to be reading all of Marlie's past memories...(hence the title..duh) and it got a bit boring to me. So I skipped to 75% and then the story took off again. Now we deal with what happens after you erase memories.
This is a very well written sad story with a pleasant ending.
I was immediately drawn into this story by the concept of erasing your memories. What an unusual concept for a lesbian romance. And the first 25% was interesting but then I realized that I was going to be reading all of Marlie's past memories...(hence the title..duh) and it got a bit boring to me. So I skipped to 75% and then the story took off again. Now we deal with what happens after you erase memories.
This is a very well written sad story with a pleasant ending.
January 2, 2024
I’ve been thinking for a while what I want to say about this book, my reasons why and how to write this review. Usually, when I finish a book, it is very clear to me where I stand on the love to hate spectrum of the book. Sometimes a book is terribly written, but I end up loving it simply because of the story and/or the characters. Other times, the prose can be wonderful, and I will still not like it.
So, where do I stand when it comes to The Memories of Marlie Rose? I have absolutely no fucking clue. Because of this, I will talk about each of the things that I value the most when it comes to a book, and how Marley Rose did in each of those things.
For starters, the characters. Marlie Rose introduces us to a few characters, none of them remarkable in any way. I mean, sure, their influence and place in the story is undeniable, as it is their place in Marley’s heart, but there is nothing about them that makes them stand out. I feel that the issue is that none of the personalities are truly developed. They have a role and they play it well, but nothing else. This for me, will never truly work, because as the story is told, I still do not manage to care about the characters. Sure, they do things that make me feel things, and they were interesting enough to keep me reading, but they never truly made me care about them. I cared about the story, not about them.
This leads to the relationships. As I’m sure you could guess, this book is queer, telling the love story between Broadway star Marlie, and the love of her life, Eleanor. And I’m sure you could also guess that I’m drawn to anything queer like a moth is to the light. So of course I was interested.
But for me, their relationship felt lacking. This is tied to my previous point, because, how could I ever really care about their relationship if I couldn’t bring myself to really deeply care about them on their own? Again, I cared about their place in the story and how it developed, but they never had a personality developed enough for me to get me interested in them.
The one relationship I was more than less interested in was Marlie and her friend, Peter. To be honest, I truly adore friendship, and reading about it will never not make me happy and gushy. Although we only see a few moments between them, they were precious and had such deep love it made me cry a little (if you’ve read the book, you know in which part) and resent not being able to do so with the other relationships.
Now, another thing I consider when talking about a book, is the pace. There is truly nothing more horrendous to me in a book than horrible pacing. In this book, Morgan Lee Miller manages to keep a good pace, showing us important moments of Marlie’s life but never getting too tied up in the details of the rest, but then kind of misses at the end. The resolution was too fast, too suddenly, and I would’ve liked it way more if it had taken more time to solve. Although I completely understand why it happened that way, I’m still not truly satisfied with it.
While I do value other things when considering if a book is good or not (the writing, themes, how well certain topics are handled, etc), I do think these are the ones holding me back from giving this book a great review. It felt lukewarm to me. Like the relationships, the book felt lacking. So I guess, the only rating I could give it and be truthful about it, is a three star. To me, a three star is not good nor bad, it’s a book that you will enjoy while reading and will think about it later on, but it will have no impact in your life and won’t change it in anyway. And that is how I feel about this book.
So, where do I stand when it comes to The Memories of Marlie Rose? I have absolutely no fucking clue. Because of this, I will talk about each of the things that I value the most when it comes to a book, and how Marley Rose did in each of those things.
For starters, the characters. Marlie Rose introduces us to a few characters, none of them remarkable in any way. I mean, sure, their influence and place in the story is undeniable, as it is their place in Marley’s heart, but there is nothing about them that makes them stand out. I feel that the issue is that none of the personalities are truly developed. They have a role and they play it well, but nothing else. This for me, will never truly work, because as the story is told, I still do not manage to care about the characters. Sure, they do things that make me feel things, and they were interesting enough to keep me reading, but they never truly made me care about them. I cared about the story, not about them.
This leads to the relationships. As I’m sure you could guess, this book is queer, telling the love story between Broadway star Marlie, and the love of her life, Eleanor. And I’m sure you could also guess that I’m drawn to anything queer like a moth is to the light. So of course I was interested.
But for me, their relationship felt lacking. This is tied to my previous point, because, how could I ever really care about their relationship if I couldn’t bring myself to really deeply care about them on their own? Again, I cared about their place in the story and how it developed, but they never had a personality developed enough for me to get me interested in them.
The one relationship I was more than less interested in was Marlie and her friend, Peter. To be honest, I truly adore friendship, and reading about it will never not make me happy and gushy. Although we only see a few moments between them, they were precious and had such deep love it made me cry a little (if you’ve read the book, you know in which part) and resent not being able to do so with the other relationships.
Now, another thing I consider when talking about a book, is the pace. There is truly nothing more horrendous to me in a book than horrible pacing. In this book, Morgan Lee Miller manages to keep a good pace, showing us important moments of Marlie’s life but never getting too tied up in the details of the rest, but then kind of misses at the end. The resolution was too fast, too suddenly, and I would’ve liked it way more if it had taken more time to solve. Although I completely understand why it happened that way, I’m still not truly satisfied with it.
While I do value other things when considering if a book is good or not (the writing, themes, how well certain topics are handled, etc), I do think these are the ones holding me back from giving this book a great review. It felt lukewarm to me. Like the relationships, the book felt lacking. So I guess, the only rating I could give it and be truthful about it, is a three star. To me, a three star is not good nor bad, it’s a book that you will enjoy while reading and will think about it later on, but it will have no impact in your life and won’t change it in anyway. And that is how I feel about this book.
December 4, 2023
Memories and the pain that stays with you throughout your life.
It's about Marlene Hatcher, a young girl who learns at a young age that life can be full of disappointments and losses.
The book begins in the present and makes it clear that Marlie Rose is a successful singer and actress who seemingly has everything, but still wants to forget so much.
She can no longer bear the pain of all these past memories and agrees to a new experimental method of erasing memories. In these sessions we delve into her memories that tell the story of her life and all I can say is that I was moved to tears on more than one occasion!
So much love coupled with so much pain is touching and also captivating.
But it's not just pain!
Marlie Rose will recognize this.
It's beautifully written and a very atypical love story, but a love story nonetheless.
About the one great love, motherly love, love for the chosen family and for the best friends and ultimately love for life itself!
In my opinion outstanding and very moving.
However, it's not an easy read, as you've probably understood by this point…
Many thanks to author Morgen Lee Miller and Bold Stroke Books for the exceptional book and of course the ARC for it!
It's about Marlene Hatcher, a young girl who learns at a young age that life can be full of disappointments and losses.
The book begins in the present and makes it clear that Marlie Rose is a successful singer and actress who seemingly has everything, but still wants to forget so much.
She can no longer bear the pain of all these past memories and agrees to a new experimental method of erasing memories. In these sessions we delve into her memories that tell the story of her life and all I can say is that I was moved to tears on more than one occasion!
So much love coupled with so much pain is touching and also captivating.
But it's not just pain!
Marlie Rose will recognize this.
It's beautifully written and a very atypical love story, but a love story nonetheless.
About the one great love, motherly love, love for the chosen family and for the best friends and ultimately love for life itself!
In my opinion outstanding and very moving.
However, it's not an easy read, as you've probably understood by this point…
Many thanks to author Morgen Lee Miller and Bold Stroke Books for the exceptional book and of course the ARC for it!
December 13, 2023
This is a beautiful well written story that proves love conquers all. This story is emotionally charged and will have you tearing up or sobbing in a good way as it's so heartfelt. The depth of this story will stay with you forever.
Great job Morgan.
I recommend 5 stars. Thank you, Morgan Lee, Bold Strokes Books and NetGalley.
Great job Morgan.
I recommend 5 stars. Thank you, Morgan Lee, Bold Strokes Books and NetGalley.
December 5, 2023
Miller has always wrote solid stories but this one has just that little bit more. I almost wish the acknowledgment was at the end of the book because you can see just how personal this book is and how close to the recent events in the author’s life. A unique subject and that’s been perfectly put on paper and a must read.
Free ARC via NetGalley
Free ARC via NetGalley
December 1, 2023
Marlie Rose, actress and Broadway star, is haunted by her past and memories of her ex. Depressed and no longer wanting to deal with this, she asks to undergo a procedure to erase these memories.
It goes well to start with, until her ex, Eleanor, comes back into the picture, making her question her decision.
Interesting, thoughtful book. The flashbacks to Marlie's youth and life are engrossing, and the reuniting of the characters very sweet.
It's definitely not your typical novel, but I liked it.
It goes well to start with, until her ex, Eleanor, comes back into the picture, making her question her decision.
Interesting, thoughtful book. The flashbacks to Marlie's youth and life are engrossing, and the reuniting of the characters very sweet.
It's definitely not your typical novel, but I liked it.
January 25, 2025
Morgan’s writing rarely lets me down & this was the best of hers that I may have read. It had so much depth & feel! WOW! In many aspects this book reminded me of “Three” by Valerie Perrin & “The Seven Husbands of Evelyn Hugo.” The platonic relationship between Marlie, Peter, & Elle was beautiful. Marlie’s & Elle both grew up together in an orphanage, the story telling was really touching & opened my eyes to the hardships many orphans face. Peter & Marlie became each other’s rock when being lgbt was more frowned upon. I ADORED their friendship & how deeply rooted it was till the end. Mar’s & Elle’s relationship was beautifully long as well. They just couldn’t let go of each other & throughout it all their friendship/love kept them together on many levels. They were mature enough to split up when they noticed that they had different goals for the future. Ellie ended up having the son (Nathan) & family she wanted & Marlie her career but it felt empty without her family. I did find it dumb how Mar wanted to get rid of everyone who made her but going over everything she experienced I get why she made that choice. Every character in this book spoke to. The intensity in this book left me feeling many emotions & I think I will always carry the trio with me! Thank you for the story Morgan <3
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 13, 2025
would like to thank netgalley and the publisher for letting me read this book
well where to start with this one... its intriguing to say the least...
marlie rose is in so much pain she just wants to forget all of those memories that cause her that pain...so when she finds out that she can she sets about to do the very thing.... she books herself in for the treatment that guarantees to remove her painful memories and hopefully she can then live her life as happy as she can be... free from the pain of those memories
but this book is about more than that.....its about her life where she started from and how she fought to be the biggest star on broadway...but it was her love for elle and what they had growing up in that orphanage that gives you a clue to how things should be....
its a powerful storyline and i am sure some of us think wow that would be wonderful to erase things that are painful in our memories and this book explores the pain and the loss and how marlies life pans out
but its about the love between two people that shone out for me in this book.... wow
well where to start with this one... its intriguing to say the least...
marlie rose is in so much pain she just wants to forget all of those memories that cause her that pain...so when she finds out that she can she sets about to do the very thing.... she books herself in for the treatment that guarantees to remove her painful memories and hopefully she can then live her life as happy as she can be... free from the pain of those memories
but this book is about more than that.....its about her life where she started from and how she fought to be the biggest star on broadway...but it was her love for elle and what they had growing up in that orphanage that gives you a clue to how things should be....
its a powerful storyline and i am sure some of us think wow that would be wonderful to erase things that are painful in our memories and this book explores the pain and the loss and how marlies life pans out
but its about the love between two people that shone out for me in this book.... wow
January 15, 2024
I really loved this book. I had a feeling I was going to enjoy it given my love for Morgan Lee Miller and celebrity related romances. The plot was super unique and engaging. I also have to admit that there were multiple times that I felt on the verge of tears because the writing was so emotional. You could feel Marlie’s pain. The only thing I would hope for more of was the interaction with her family at the end. I highly recommend reading this book!
An ARC was given for my honest review.
An ARC was given for my honest review.
December 4, 2023
‘The memories of Marlie- Rose’ is a stunning work that goes far beyond the genre of ‘sapphic romance’. Morgan Lee Miller has accomplished a huge feat in constructing a love story that spans five decades, an entire life of experiences, pivotal moments of success and loss and a cast of characters that will make you laugh and cry in equal measure.
The premise of ‘Marlie- Rose’ is a question- what moments of your life would you forget if you could? If you were writing the story of your life, which moments would you erase and what ramifications would occur without them? Marlie- Rose feels haunted and tormented by loss and heartbreak from the one woman she truly loved, Eleanor Olson. She was there at the beginning after Marlie had been abandoned by her mother and she was there for every step she took until her name was in lights.
I loved the details that Miller took the time to research for this story, for a film and musical theatre lover like me it helped add authenticity but also sincerity in this work. I feel as a reader you can really tell when a story has personal elements to it and when a writer truly cares for the characters they have created. ‘Marley- Rose’ is one of those books that encapsulates that level of care and poignancy and is my favourite book by Miller so far. There is something beyond the original concept of this sapphic romance that makes it special, something that makes you invest in the story unfolding in front of you, something that fills your heart in one scene and shatters it in the next.
Marlie and Eleanor experience so many high and lows throughout their lives together but their story feels bigger than that as Miller writes through the queer history from Stonewall to the Aids epidemic. There are trigger warnings for violence and homophobia for this novel but despite the pain and struggle these characters experience it felt like a lesson to be grateful for how far we as a queer community have come, but also a reminder of how we all need to support one another in how much further we need to go. Miller constructs a family for Marlie-Rose and it felt like a beautiful representation of the family we can create for ourselves from friends we meet throughout our lives.
This is more than a sapphic love story, it is a blockbuster of a production that you can't help but replay time and time again- just stunning.
The premise of ‘Marlie- Rose’ is a question- what moments of your life would you forget if you could? If you were writing the story of your life, which moments would you erase and what ramifications would occur without them? Marlie- Rose feels haunted and tormented by loss and heartbreak from the one woman she truly loved, Eleanor Olson. She was there at the beginning after Marlie had been abandoned by her mother and she was there for every step she took until her name was in lights.
I loved the details that Miller took the time to research for this story, for a film and musical theatre lover like me it helped add authenticity but also sincerity in this work. I feel as a reader you can really tell when a story has personal elements to it and when a writer truly cares for the characters they have created. ‘Marley- Rose’ is one of those books that encapsulates that level of care and poignancy and is my favourite book by Miller so far. There is something beyond the original concept of this sapphic romance that makes it special, something that makes you invest in the story unfolding in front of you, something that fills your heart in one scene and shatters it in the next.
Marlie and Eleanor experience so many high and lows throughout their lives together but their story feels bigger than that as Miller writes through the queer history from Stonewall to the Aids epidemic. There are trigger warnings for violence and homophobia for this novel but despite the pain and struggle these characters experience it felt like a lesson to be grateful for how far we as a queer community have come, but also a reminder of how we all need to support one another in how much further we need to go. Miller constructs a family for Marlie-Rose and it felt like a beautiful representation of the family we can create for ourselves from friends we meet throughout our lives.
This is more than a sapphic love story, it is a blockbuster of a production that you can't help but replay time and time again- just stunning.
March 9, 2024
So I asked for a recommendation for a Morgan Lee Miller book, and got back “you can’t go wrong with any of them, but how much do you want to cry?” I said my last read was pretty light so I’m up for something more emotional, and this was the suggestion. It wasn’t wrong. Also, I’m a big Eternal Sunshine fan, so there’s that. Basically, I thought this book was amazing, but definitely not light!
The first two-thirds or three-quarters were pretty heartbreaking, as over the course of multiple treatments Marlie works through her memories from childhood forward, and decides which ones to discard. She has her reasons, but some of the ones she chooses to get rid of, OMG. Then, later on, she starts to meet people or hear references to people she’s lost important memories of and has to grapple with how to explain herself and whether to continue with the memory-deleting treatments or stop and possibly even try to recover what she’s lost.
The specific events of the story were well-done as well, from Marlie’s childhood with her parents and then in the foster system, to getting discovered, to the huge variety of shows (and movies and etc.) she was part of, to her life with her friends outside of work, to the awards shows and parties, and ultimately leading up to her decision to go forward with the memory treatment and the consequences of doing so. Marlie’s life included both good times and tough times, close relationships and casual ones, professional successes and failures (though not too many of the latter), and so on… both the highs and the lows.
Beside the story itself, the characters were great. A lot of this was on Marlie, who both had to justify her decisions to go with this treatment, and then work through all the memories, and then work through the implications of it. But the rest of the cast was wonderful too, primarily Elle and Peter and Nathan, and because the story spanned the better part of 60 years we got to see them at many different ages and places in life.
Overall, everything came together and worked really well, even if I wasn’t exactly dry-eyed as things played out. This was a great read, and I would heartily reiterate the recommendation I received. :)
The first two-thirds or three-quarters were pretty heartbreaking, as over the course of multiple treatments Marlie works through her memories from childhood forward, and decides which ones to discard. She has her reasons, but some of the ones she chooses to get rid of, OMG. Then, later on, she starts to meet people or hear references to people she’s lost important memories of and has to grapple with how to explain herself and whether to continue with the memory-deleting treatments or stop and possibly even try to recover what she’s lost.
The specific events of the story were well-done as well, from Marlie’s childhood with her parents and then in the foster system, to getting discovered, to the huge variety of shows (and movies and etc.) she was part of, to her life with her friends outside of work, to the awards shows and parties, and ultimately leading up to her decision to go forward with the memory treatment and the consequences of doing so. Marlie’s life included both good times and tough times, close relationships and casual ones, professional successes and failures (though not too many of the latter), and so on… both the highs and the lows.
Beside the story itself, the characters were great. A lot of this was on Marlie, who both had to justify her decisions to go with this treatment, and then work through all the memories, and then work through the implications of it. But the rest of the cast was wonderful too, primarily Elle and Peter and Nathan, and because the story spanned the better part of 60 years we got to see them at many different ages and places in life.
Overall, everything came together and worked really well, even if I wasn’t exactly dry-eyed as things played out. This was a great read, and I would heartily reiterate the recommendation I received. :)
February 20, 2024
This story has completely captivated me from the beginning to the end. For its originality, for the way the author has followed to deal with harsh topics with realism and without frills. And it also makes you reflect at the same time as the main protagonist, Marlie, about whether bad experiences should be forgotten or if having lived them improves the good ones.
Marlie has always been independent, at first by force, but as she matures, that independence makes her make unilateral decisions that affect her closest environment. Although her life began in a very difficult way, her tenacity and talent have taken her to the top. But at the cost of a lot of personal suffering, or not as much suffering as having had to make painful decisions that she now intends to eliminate from her memory. But this will also eliminate other wonderful moments. Is it going to be worth it to her?
The other protagonists of the story are not as important as her, but they are essential for the decisions she is making now. Especially Elle, with whom she has had a relationship since they were child and who has experienced the worst and best moments with her, although their circumstances have not been easy and they have been separating and joining their paths at different times in their lives. Their story toghether is outstanding and it is worth discovering it little by little as the story progresses.
I don't give it the highest rating because at the end it gets a little stuck although it is a really wonderful story.
Marlie has always been independent, at first by force, but as she matures, that independence makes her make unilateral decisions that affect her closest environment. Although her life began in a very difficult way, her tenacity and talent have taken her to the top. But at the cost of a lot of personal suffering, or not as much suffering as having had to make painful decisions that she now intends to eliminate from her memory. But this will also eliminate other wonderful moments. Is it going to be worth it to her?
The other protagonists of the story are not as important as her, but they are essential for the decisions she is making now. Especially Elle, with whom she has had a relationship since they were child and who has experienced the worst and best moments with her, although their circumstances have not been easy and they have been separating and joining their paths at different times in their lives. Their story toghether is outstanding and it is worth discovering it little by little as the story progresses.
I don't give it the highest rating because at the end it gets a little stuck although it is a really wonderful story.
January 7, 2024
The vibes of this book are San Junipero tech meets the 7 husbands of Evelyn Hugo. If that doesn't tell you about wht you can expect, I don't know what will.
Marlie Rose is a Broadway star who's had a full if not painful life. She's looking to erase the pain so she can live life without the hurt. So she starts this procedure that erases all the painful experiences and memories that prevent her from being happy. But is this really the way to go?
The way the tale is told feels like you are living Marlie's life. Her joy but also her pain. I had a hard time reading through some of her hardships and could totally understand why she choose to erase some of the hurt. It's not an easy life to have had and just like Marlie I found strenght in the parts with Elle. She's Marlie's BFF and rock in life pulling her through the hard parts and grounding her when she needed a place to call home. I loved every second of their story together and could not root more for them even if I wanted to.
This is a book that will make you cry and laugh and consider your life all at once.
An ARC was provided to me via Netgalley in return of an honest review.
Marlie Rose is a Broadway star who's had a full if not painful life. She's looking to erase the pain so she can live life without the hurt. So she starts this procedure that erases all the painful experiences and memories that prevent her from being happy. But is this really the way to go?
The way the tale is told feels like you are living Marlie's life. Her joy but also her pain. I had a hard time reading through some of her hardships and could totally understand why she choose to erase some of the hurt. It's not an easy life to have had and just like Marlie I found strenght in the parts with Elle. She's Marlie's BFF and rock in life pulling her through the hard parts and grounding her when she needed a place to call home. I loved every second of their story together and could not root more for them even if I wanted to.
This is a book that will make you cry and laugh and consider your life all at once.
An ARC was provided to me via Netgalley in return of an honest review.
September 12, 2024
Morgan Lee Miller has been a goto author for me. Loved all her books. This one is much in the way of The Seven Husbands Evelyn Hugo. TSHEH was maybe the best book I had read in years and still is. This book..the good.. I loved the original storytelling of the 2 mains as they grew up and the other characters we were introduced to as well. I would say overall this was about 2/3 of the book. The remainder made me give my head a shake a little as the logic of what was happening and why?..A BIG WHY.. I think the book could have maybe been another 100 pages in order to explain why the events that happen happen. It feels rushed. I let go of my hmmmmmm moments and still enjoyed the rest of and the ending of the book. Maybe a little more story from the second leads point of view as it came to light late in the book would have helped. This book should not be put in the same class as TSHOEH. Similar somewhat but not nearly as good or re-read material in my view. Still enjoyed it and the first 2/3 had me eating it up... the remainder just ok. Still I cant wait to see what Morgan comes out with next. 4ish stars
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